Gloucester County proposes 14% water and sewer rate increase to address funding gaps

The Gloucester County Board of Supervisors convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss critical changes to water and sewer rates aimed at addressing the operational and capital needs of the county's utility system. The proposed rate increases, which are set to take effect on May 1, 2025, include a 14% hike per tier over the next five years. This decision comes after a prolonged period without rate adjustments, with the last increase occurring in February 2014.

During the meeting, staff presented a detailed analysis of the financial challenges facing the utility system, highlighting that operational costs have consistently outpaced revenues. The urgency of implementing these rate changes was underscored by the projection that the reserve fund would be nearly depleted by the end of the fiscal year 2025. The proposed increases are part of a broader ten-year plan to stabilize the utility system's finances and ensure its sustainability.

The specifics of the proposed rate changes indicate that the majority of customers will experience modest increases. For instance, 86% of water-only customers will see an increase of approximately $7.03 per month, while 90% of customers will face a combined increase of $16.79 or less for both water and sewer services. However, public comments during the meeting revealed significant concerns regarding the fairness and structure of the proposed increases. Several residents argued that the rate adjustments disproportionately affect lower usage customers and called for a more equitable distribution of costs across all users.

Public feedback also emphasized the need for transparency and a clearer understanding of the utility system's operational costs and future plans. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of detailed information regarding the financial health of the utility system and the absence of a comprehensive strategy to address long-standing infrastructure issues.

In conclusion, the Gloucester County Board of Supervisors faces a pivotal moment as it seeks to implement necessary rate increases to support the utility system. The discussions highlighted the community's concerns about the sustainability of water and sewer services, the need for equitable rate structures, and the importance of transparent communication regarding future plans. As the board moves forward, it will be essential to address these concerns to foster trust and ensure the long-term viability of the county's utilities.